Crispy Spicy Cauliflower Wings (Print Version)

Crispy cauliflower florets baked and coated in classic buffalo sauce for a flavorful snack.

# Ingredient List:

→ Cauliflower

01 - 1 large head cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets

→ Batter

02 - 1 cup all-purpose flour
03 - 3/4 cup water
04 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
05 - 1 teaspoon onion powder
06 - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
07 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
08 - 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

→ Buffalo Sauce

09 - 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
10 - 1/2 cup hot sauce, such as Frank's RedHot
11 - 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)

→ Serving (optional)

12 - Celery sticks
13 - Carrot sticks
14 - Ranch or blue cheese dressing

# Cooking Directions:

01 - Set oven to 425°F and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
02 - Whisk together flour, water, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper in a large bowl until smooth.
03 - Toss cauliflower florets in the batter to ensure an even coating.
04 - Place coated florets in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
05 - Bake for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the florets are lightly browned.
06 - Combine melted butter, hot sauce, and honey or maple syrup (if using) in a small bowl, whisking to blend.
07 - Remove cauliflower from oven and gently toss in buffalo sauce until thoroughly coated.
08 - Return coated florets to the baking sheet and bake for an additional 10 minutes, achieving a crispy and caramelized texture.
09 - Present immediately alongside celery sticks, carrot sticks, and your choice of ranch or blue cheese dressing.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • They deliver that perfect crunch and spicy kick without the heaviness of traditional wings
  • The batter creates such a convincing texture that even skeptics keep coming back for more
02 -
  • Crowding the baking sheet will make the cauliflower steam instead of crisp, so work in batches if needed
  • The batter should be thick enough to coat the florets without dripping off instantly
03 -
  • Use plant-based butter and maple syrup for a vegan version that tastes just as good
  • Gluten-free flour blends work well if you need to accommodate dietary restrictions
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